Great Question
Whether this is your first engagement with a private GP or perhaps you have previously accessed private healthcare advice through work, you are sure to have questions about the service that we provide and how it works here at Courtyard Health Clinic.
In this section we aim to bring clarity and reassurance to you by answering some of the common questions we are asked about our service. Of course, do feel free to contact us with any other questions you may have about our clinic and the services that we provide.
What is a private GP, and how is Courtyard Health Clinic different from an NHS GP?
A private GP provides primary care outside of the NHS. At Courtyard Health Clinic, patients pay for our services, which allows us to offer longer appointments, quicker access, and more consistent care with the same doctor.
Why would I choose a private GP?
Patients often choose Courtyard Health Clinic for shorter wait times, longer consultations, urgent GP appointments and more flexible appointment scheduling. We provide thorough, personalised care with fewer time pressures.
What services does Courtyard Health Clinic offer?
We offer a range of general practice services, including consultations, health checks, private blood tests, referrals, and medicals. In addition, Courtyard Health Clinic provides occupational health services such as pre-employment assessments, fitness-for-work evaluations, and tailored reports for employers.
What services are not provided?
Courtyard Health Clinic does not offer aesthetic treatments, controlled drug prescribing (e.g. opioids or gabapentinoids), substitute prescribing for addiction, maternity or obstetric care, or management of severe mental illness (such as uncontrolled bipolar disorder or schizophrenia). These are best addressed by specialist or NHS services.
Can you deal with medical emergencies?
No. We are not an emergency service. For urgent or life-threatening problems, patients should contact NHS 111, visit A&E, or call 999.
Do you accept walk-ins?
While booking ahead is always the best option, we will do our best to accommodate walk-in consultations when we can. Walk-in availability is Monday to Friday, 10am – 4pm, and Saturdays 10am – 11.30am.
If we are already full or dealing with something urgent, we might not be able to see you straight away, but we will always try to help or offer the next best option.
How do I register? Do I need to leave my NHS GP?
You can register with Courtyard Health Clinic by booking an appointment and completing a short form. You should remain registered with your NHS GP, as we are designed to complement NHS care, not replace it.
How do I book and pay for an appointment?
Bookings can be made online or by phone. Payment is required following your appointment, and invoices will include any additional services such as tests or letters. Most UK insurance policies do not cover private GP consultations, so our services are typically self-funded.
Do you see children?
Yes, we offer appointments for patients of all ages, including children.
Can overseas visitors be seen at Courtyard Health Clinic?
Yes, visitors and temporary residents are welcome and can book appointments and access our servces.
Do you share my medical records with anyone?
No. Your records are confidential and will only be shared with your consent, or where legally required for safety reasons.
Can you refer me to a specialist?
Yes, if necessary, we can refer you to private or NHS specialists and provide letters to support ongoing care.
Can I get blood tests and investigations through you?
Yes. We offer private blood tests and other investigations, with fast turnaround times. Additional charges may apply.
Do you offer home visits?
Yes, home visits are available within roughly a one-hour travel radius from Eskmills, Musselburgh, covering much of East Lothian and Edinburgh. Fees start at £350 and will vary based on travel time and distance.
Do you provide maternity care or pregnancy services?
No. We do not offer antenatal care, pregnancy monitoring, or obstetric services. These should be accessed via NHS maternity services.
Can I use Courtyard Health Clinic for mental health concerns?
We can support patients with mild to moderate mental health issues. However, we are not a suitable service for managing severe psychiatric illness, such as uncontrolled bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Do you offer cosmetic or aesthetic treatments?
No. Courtyard Health Clinic does not offer any aesthetic or cosmetic procedures, such as injectables or laser treatments.
Are you a regulated clinic?
Yes, Courtyard Health Clinic is registered with Healthcare Improvement Scotland, and all doctors are GMC-licensed and meet professional revalidation standards. Courtyard Health Clinic Healthcare Improvement Scotland registration number is 03175.
